The Mayan world is fascinating. Discovering the origins of this civilization (which is estimated to have existed since 1800 B.C. in Mexico and Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras) is a journey to the past and to the history of a culture whose manifestations can still be felt in some regions of the country.
Specifically in Mexico, the Mayans settled in the current states of Tabasco, Chiapas, Quintana Roo, Campeche, and Yucatán. In the latter, it is still possible to explore some Mayan remains that bear witness to this important legacy.
Around the Mayan legacy, archaeological tourism has been generated, attracting many travelers interested in learning and deepening their knowledge of this legendary culture. They travel in search of these types of experiences, where history is the main draw for most excursions. In this sense, Cancun is a destination that, in addition to being recognized as one of the best for enjoying the beaches and the Caribbean Sea, is the starting point for discovering many of the archaeological remains of Yucatán, among which the following stand out:
- Chichen Itza
Very close to the city of Mérida is the most famous of all the archaeological sites in Yucatán and Mexico. In this archaeological area, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, is the pyramid of Kukulcán, popularly known as “El Castillo” (The Castle), which measures 25 meters and symbolizes the Mayan calendar. At the pyramid, during the spring and autumn equinoxes, a must-see spectacle takes place, where, through the interplay of light and shadow, the image of the serpent descending the steps of this unique archaeological vestige is reflected. In addition to the pyramid, there are other structures here such as the Ball Game Court and the Temple of the Thousand Columns. If you wish to explore this emblem of Mayan culture, you can book a one-day tour (it is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.), or you can also spend a night at the Chichén Hacienda.
- Uxmal
Also included in UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites, this site located just 80 km from Mérida is one of the most impressive representations of Mayan architecture. Known as “the thrice-built city” (the translation of Uxmal in Mayan), it includes a set of architectural structures featuring a series of low and horizontal palaces, adorned with sculptures crafted from thousands of small stones. There are 15 groups of buildings that make up this Mayan city, home to numerous iguanas that you will likely encounter during your visit to Uxmal.
While these two are the most important Mayan cities, there are other remains you cannot miss during your tour of the Yucatán Peninsula such as Aké, a city built approximately in the year 1000 A.D. where “The Palace” stands out; or Ek Balam, 26 kilometers from Campinas, which includes a series of constructions hidden behind lush trees; and Xlapak, located southwest of Uxmal, where you’ll find a majestic structure also called “The Palace.”
Now you know, if you are traveling through the Yucatán Peninsula, be sure to visit each of these beautiful Mayan ruins and discover the wealth that this ancient culture left behind in these lands.
Portuguese Versión: Os vestígios maias que não pode perder em seu passeio pela península de Yucatán
